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New Year: Mark, Tambuwal, govs, Buhari, others preach peace



Mark and Tambuwal



















All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate for 2015 election, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari, has enjoined Nigerians to see the new year as an opportunity to herald change.
In a New Year message signed by his director of media, Mr Dele Alake, the APC standard-bearer said “I bring to you a New Year Message of hope and optimism.


“I share the anxiety of the middle class and the poor who have borne the brunt of the policies of government for so long with increasing burden. I share the fear of the unemployed whose hopes for new jobs in the new year is being dashed because companies will cut jobs. I share the concerns of the manufacturers whose import-dominated production will be challenged by the austerity measures.”
Buhari added that Nigerians must be the sole object and focus of government, adding that “the more the potential of citizens are maximised within any nation, the higher will be the prospects of that nation for attaining greatness.
“The first great task facing Nigeria today, therefore, is to put in place a government that can guarantee the safety and security of Nigerians throughout the length and breadth of our country. This is because Nigerians must first of all be alive, safe and free from fear before they can exercise and utilise their talents for the benefit of their nation.
“I declare that, collectively, we can bring an end to this season of despair; we can bring an end to this avoidable fear; we can bring an end to this néedless anxiety.
“On February 14, the Almighty offers us a historic opportunity to chart a new course out of the tragedy that we have found ourselves. History offers us a chance to correct the errors of the past. Great Nigerian people, this is our chance.”
 Mark, Ekweremadu, Tambuwal, govs, others preach peace, forgivenessAs Nigerians witnesses the start of a new year 2015, Senate President, Deputy Senate Presdient, Speaker of the House of Representatives, state governors among others have sent goodwill messages, welcoming them and preaching love, peace and forgiveness.
Senate President David Mark has said that individual and group interests must not be allowed to undermine Nigeria’s national interests as the general elections draw closer.
Mark, in a New Year message released in Abuja said that Nigerians at all levels must ensure violence free elections in 2015 and that people must reject advocates of violence and work together to ensure peace.
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu has called for prayers and patriotic conducts from Nigerians ahead of the 2015 general elections.
The senate’s number two man, in a New Year message made public on Wednesday said that the forthcoming elections is a potential milestone for the nation’s democracy, noting that the longevity of the current democratic dispensation, which surpassed all others before it, has been made possible through sacrifice, commitment, and determination of all Nigerians.
“Year 2015 presents us with another opportunity to build on our democratic gains. The elections call for a high sense of patriotism, decorum, forbearance, and strict observance of the rules among Nigerians, especially the political class, to make the process free, fair, and credible.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Aminu Tambuwal has on Wednesday urged governments at all levels to put in place comprehensive and coordinated strategy that would enhance the welfare and living conditions of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the country.
In a New Year message issued by his spokesman, Malam Imam Imam, Tambuwal said “IDPs in various camps within and outside the country deserve our support at all times. The House of Representatives, in conjunction with other arms of government, will support any effort aimed at finding durable solutions to the challenges of the IDPs.”
Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of the New Year, urging them to continue to work for the unity of Nigeria and not to lose hope owing to the various challenges currently confronting the country.
The governor stated this in his New Year message issued in Ibadan, on Wednesday, by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Festus Adedayo, adding that, “As patriotic Nigerians, we should continue to work for the unity, peace and progress of our dear country.
Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State called on Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of forgiveness in the New Year.
This is contained in New Year message issued by his Director of Publicity, Mr James Mannok, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Jos.
According to the statement, there is need to refocus on love, reconcile and rededicate selves to the service of God and humanity.
Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has said that the New Year 2015 will be an important one for Nigerians to vote for change and get the country back to the path of greatness.
According to him, “the year presents Nigerians with a unique opportunity to rise in unison to elect credible leaders and confront the challenges facing the nation.”
Ekiti State governor, Mr Ayo Fayose, urged Nigerians not to despair as they welcome year 2015, saying with faith and confidence in God, Nigerians will overcome all her challenges.
The governor, in his New Year message to the people in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday said, “We have to look towards 2015 with great hope and expectation that it will be well with our state and country and that with our support, our leaders will take us to greater height.”
The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) also called on Nigerians to shun acts capable of plunging the entire country into avoidable crisis.
The Chairman of the forum and Governor Babangida Aliyu of Niger State, said this in a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Israel Ebije, in Minna on Wednesday.
“We must all make sure that the forthcoming general election is devoid of violence. The electoral body and other critical establishments connected to the forthcoming elections must be ready to go extra miles in the execution of their respective assignments,” the statement read.
Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State, on Wednesday urged Nigerians to be patriotic and pray fervently for the continued existence of the country in 2015 as we prepares for the general elections.
Aregbesola, according to a press release by his director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy in the Office of the Governor, Mr Semiu Okanlawon noted that year 2015 would engender more development, peace and prosperity for the citizenry.
Governor Gabriel Suswam of Benue State in his message raised the alarm of impending hard times in the country this New Year stating that unless drastic measures are taken to salvage the drop in nation’s economy, many states will continue to owe workers’ salaries.
The governor, who spoke during the commissioning of government house chapel in Makurdi, Benue State capital on Wednesday adduced the current situation in the country to the reduction in oil prices adding that the development will make it difficult for states and the Federal Government to pay workers salaries in 2015.
Senate Majority Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba called on Nigerians to remain prayerful in the New Year just as the general election is around the corner.
Senator Ndoma Egba, in a New Year message released in Abuja, said that Nigerians must pray for the country.
The statement read: “First and foremost, we thank God that despite all the challenges we encountered as a country in 2014, particularly in the North east, we are still standing strong.”
Gubernatorial candidate of Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, in his New Year message, called on Nigerians to eschew vices like violence, crime and general unrest.
Makinde, noting the peculiarity of 2015 as an election year, charged Nigerians to dissociate from voting based on ethnicity, religion, gender, age or other primordial sentiments.
Specifically, he enjoined Nigerians to vote based solely on the need to ensure that very competent people occupy positions of authority.
IGP promises watertight security nationwideAhead of the New Year celebration, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Suleiman Abba, on Wednesday disclosed that the force would ensure watertight security measure nationwide.
This is coming just as the police boss stated that the force was equally ready for the 2015 elections, saying that the force is ever ready and committed towards ensuring a free and fair 2015 general elections.
The Police spokesperson, Emmanuel Ojukwu in a statement issued in Abuja maintained that, “against the backdrop of security challenges in the country and the general preparation for the New Year Celebrations, the Nigeria Police High Command has urged worshippers both at Jummat and Church services to take adequate measures to reduce the number of vehicles around worship centres.”
Operators of Motor Parks, Shopping Malls and Recreational Centres are also advised to work closely with the Police and other security agencies as they strive to strengthen general security in their respective facilities.
“To ensure secured, peaceful and hitch-free nation-wide New Year celebration, the IGP has directed all Zonal AIGs and State Command Commissioners of Police to ensure effective and efficient deployment of all operational manpower and tools at the disposal of their respective Commands,” he said
He further directed the AIG Border Patrol to ensure that the nation’s borders are effectively manned to prevent cross-border crime, stressing that, the AIG Air-Wing has also been directed to provide aerial patrol for the FCT and other States.
2015 has potency for better future —Kwara speakerSPEAKER, Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Razak Atunwa, has said that 2015 has potency to secure a better future for Nigeria.
In a statement made available to journalists in Ilorin on Wednesday, the Speaker welcomed Nigerians to 2015, saying it was a year all Nigerians had been anticipating as it “affords us all the opportunity to reset this nation, put it on the right course and secure its future through our votes in the general election next month.”
The statement read thus: “The potency of 2015 to secure a better future for Nigeria cannot be over-emphasised. The events of preceding years have weakened the reputation of Nigeria, not only for Nigerians but for other nations.
“Spanning from 2011 till date, Nigeria’s fortune has been threatened by selfish political interests of individuals and groups; insecurity in the northern states has reached fever pitch-ranging from indiscriminate killings of innocent populace and the sad memories the abduction of schoolgirls brings; our economy has experienced serious imbalances and unemployment keeps rising, among other social ills.
“The night fall builds into days, and the days build into years; as a nation, we have endured the struggles of the years and we are hurtling through a crossroad, where we determine the future of this nation. The power vested in us by the authority of our votes is strong enough to liberate Nigeria from all forms of social ills and set the nation ahead among other nations of the world.
“At this point, Nigeria must be made safe for democracy; this nation’s peace must be planted upon tested foundations of political ideology based on fairness, equity and justice for all; our economy must work, our nation must be made secured, our armed forces must remain vibrant for the masses, unemployment has to cease, the abducted girls must return, we must experience infrastructural growth, corruption must vanish, we must overcome ethic and religious tensions, our youths must be empowered and we must invest into our future.
“I urge us all to embrace peace in this forthcoming elections; we must hold it firm in our hearts that the weapon we possess to change Nigeria is not cutlass, guns, money, stones, or charms; our sole weapon to experience a new Nigeria is our votes..
“Therefore, once again, I encourage us all to boost our spirit and mobilise fellow Nigerians towards the forthcoming election; a Nigeria for all is possible, if only we get involved, exercise our rights to vote and make our votes count.”
Pray for Nigeria, Daniel urgesTHE immediate past governor of Ogun State, Chief Gbenga Daniel, has called on Nigerians and good people of Ogun State to usher in Year 2015 with prayers for the country.
In his New Year message, Daniel advocated for peace and unity which, according to him, could only be achieved in an atmosphere of religious tolerance, peaceful co-existence, love and togetherness.
On the state of insecurity in the nation, the former governor renewed his call for deep prayers and divine intervention in the quest to stemming the scourge while urging the government to expedite actions on a grand plan to counter the rising cases of insurgency to forestall unnecessary bloodshed and palpable fear presently ravaging the nation.
He also urged politicians to eschew politics of bitterness, violence, religious bigotry and ethcnicy, while advocating issue-based campaigns as against misguided statements, falsehood, rumour and mischief.
He advised parents to caution their wards against being used as instruments of political violence and unruly behaviours during the 2015 elections.
Olubadan calls for unity, restraintTHE Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade 1, has admonished Nigerians to be more united and resolute in their resistance against threats to the corporate existence of the nation.
Noting that 2014 was a challenging year due to insecurity in the country, Olubadan, in a release signed by his personal assistant, Chief Isiaka Akinpelu, called for restraint and respect for the rights and freedom of fellow Nigerians in 2015.
He, however, commended the counter-insurgency efforts of the Federal Government, security personnel and other Nigerians in the fight against insurgency.
Odunlana further exhorted politicians to be temperate in their utterances and conduct, and refrain from actions capable of jeopardising the fragile peace in the state and Nigeria as a whole.
He charged Nigerians to maintain peace and security in Ibadanland and Nigeria as a whole.
Alaafin calls for unity, love
THE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, has tasked Nigerians on unity, love and respect for constituted authorities in the New Year.
The monarch, in a statement by his media aide, Prince Azeez Fehintola, congratulated Nigerians on the New Year, while calling on them to eschew violence, live in peace and prosper in the land.
“2015 is a great year. It is a year of great expectations. I encourage all to eschew violence, live in brotherly love and avoid any form of disharmony.
“As we approach the election period, let us cultivate sportsman spirit. Let the losers accept the decision of the people in good faith and let the winners be magnanimous in victory.
“I desire a country where peace and love reign. Before and after the election, I wish and pray for peace in the length and breadth of the country,” he said.
The traditional ruler called for caution as electioneering commences, adding that Nigerians must prove bookmakers wrong by ensuring a peaceful transition.
“It is on this note that I congratulate all Nigerians as we enter the New Year. It shall be a great year and this country will not be divided. We shall stand after the end of the year and remain indivisible entity,” he added.
The Alaafin congratulated President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President, David Mark; Speaker, House of Representatives, Honourable Aminu Tambuwal; all the state governors and members of the National Asembly and states houses of assembly.
He also congratulated the people of Oyo town and wished everyone a prosperous year.
Help in building new Nigeria, FCT Minister tells NigeriansMINISTER of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Mohammed, has urged residents to remain steadfast and resolute in joining hands with other well meaning Nigerians to build a new Nigeria under President Goodluck Jonathan where generations yet unborn would be proud of.
This is even as he observed that the year remains very special to the nation as it is an election year where citizens would have yet another opportunity to elect their leaders.
Senator Mohammed, in a New Year message, urged citizens, irrespective of religious beliefs or political inclinations, to pray for the country to experience peaceful general elections and urged them to abhor violence.
The minister emphasised that “Nigeria needs prayers at this crucial time to have successful and peaceful elections to strengthen our democracy.”
The minister advised Nigerians to also pray for the country’s leadership, for God to continue to guide, protect and give President Jonathan the strength and wisdom to steer the affairs of state and judiciously implement the Transformation Agenda of the Federal Government.
He also enjoined Abuja residents to remain unwavering, believe in the capability of Nigeria’s leadership whilst being their brothers’ keepers, and expressed the commitment of his administration to continue to provide serene and clean environment in consonance with the road map of his administration and transformation agenda of President Jonathan.
“I charge you to always assist the security agents with useful information on any suspicious movement because security is everybody’s business,” he added.
Promote love, patriotism, Kogi gov advisesTHE governor of Kogi State, Idris Wada, has rejoiced with all Nigerians for witnessing year 2015.
He enjoined Christians to pray for peace and orderly conduct of the forthcoming general elections.
The governor, in a New Year message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Mr Jacob Edi, advised Nigerians to use the yuletide season for the promotion of love and patriotism.
The governor thanked people of the state for their support and cooperation which he noted were responsible for the successes recorded by his administration. He also reiterated his determination to make life better for the people of the state.
He called on Nigerians to spare some time for prayers for genuine peace and progress of the country and for its leadership.
Be extra vigilant, pray for peace, Yuguda tasks Bauchi peopleBAUCHI State governor, Mallam Isa Yuguda, has urged the people of the state to be extra vigilant in view of the security challenges in the country and also pray for peace to reign in Nigeria.
The governor, in his goodwill message to the people of Bauchi State on the occasion of the New Year celebration, stated that as they celebrated the beginning of 2015, they should reflect on the previous year with a view to plan for a better 2015.
While saying that Bauchi State could be adjudged as one of the most peaceful states in the North-East geopolitical zone, “the state had during the last one year witnessed disturbing incidents of kidnapping, murder and bomb blasts, the last of which was the recent bombing of the Bauchi Central Market.”
Yuguda stated that the state government in conjunction with security agencies was doing everything possible to bring an end to the security challenges and called on the people of the state “to be extra-vigilant and give necessary support and cooperation towards the realisation of this objective.”
The governor then urged the people to make their New Year resolution be a peaceful co-existence among themselves, irrespective of religious, cultural or political differences.
“We should also continue to fervently pray for the security challenges to come to an end and pray for peace to reign throughout the country. While we usher in the New Year, I urge you to pray to God for a better and prosperous 2015,” Governor Yuguda said.
He, however, said that the state government was committed to ensuring the security of lives and property of all the people of the state, assuring that, “we would leave no stone unturned in our effort to ensure that we continue to enjoy a peaceful Bauchi State where all citizens will move freely without any molestation.”
2015, year of change —FayemiFORMER governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, has urged Nigerians to effect the much desired positive change in the polity this year.
Fayemi, in a New Year message, described 2015 as a year of decision for Nigeria and urged the citizens to join hands with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the quest to sweep out bad leadership from the country.
“Nigerians have worked and prayed for a Nigerian nation that would meet the vision and aspirations of its founding fathers. This is the time to take a bold step further and effect the change with our votes,” declared Fayemi in a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode.
Fayemi noted that the future prosperity of the country is tied to the change the people make through the opportunity provided by the February 14, 2015 presidential election and other outlined elections in the year.
The former governor urged Nigerians to use their votes as the only power they have to make the right change and bail themselves and the country out of the current inept PDP-led government which has proved to be helpless as the country continues to writhe in the pains of general insecurity, corruption, economic hardship and poor leadership.
Fayemi, who was the chairman of the national convention of the APC that produced General Muhammadu Buhari as the party’s presidential candidate, said “the APC remains the most veritable vehicle for that change which Nigerians have long desired.”
According to Fayemi, “Nigeria is evidently on a critical trajectory and is ripe for alternation of power.” He described APC as an idea whose time has come, adding that the party clearly meets and excels in all the requirements of that desired change.
“While we rejoice and congratulate one another for witnessing 2015, let us know that it is also a year of change for the country. And the change which we will effect through the ballot come February will usher in the real celebration,” Fayemi added.
Better days ahead, Folarin assures Oyo people
THE governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Senator Teslim Folarin, has assured the people of the state of better days in 2015 and beyond.
Folarin, in his New Year message to the people, urged the state citizenry not to despair in the face of daunting economic and social challenges, noting that “with a concerted effort, determination and synergy between the people and a government with human face, the new year holds a lot of promise.”
“Our people should not lose hope, as a new PDP government in Oyo State come 2015, shall put smiles back on the faces of our people,” Folarin added.
Folarin, in a statement by his Director of Media and Strategy, Victor Oluwadamilare, said that “our people have suffered enough under the present administration, which copied many ideas from Lagos State wholesale without considering the peculiarity of the culture and practices of our environment.”
“In their copycat frenzy, they succeeded in destroying the livelihood of thousands of traders, resulting to deaths in many cases, while others still living have been turned to scavengers and beggars,” the statement added.
Under a PDP government in Oyo State come 2015, poverty reduction will be our focus, Folarin said, adding that “youth unemployment, support for the vulnerable, education, health and agriculture shall form the fulcrum of our purpose-driven administration.
“In these days of unpredictable price of oil in the international market, an agrarian state like Oyo has a lot of potentials to absorb thousands of unemployed youths”, noting that “all it requires is the creation of an enabling environment in the rural areas backed by purposeful legislation and committed leadership.”
2015 ’ll offer new lease of hope for Nigerians —Omisore
THE standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last governorship poll in Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, on Wednesdy, said 2015 would offer a new lease of hope to all Nigerians.
In a New Year message authorised by his media aide, Mr Victor Oriola, he admonished the people to stand firm, despite daunting challenges confronting the nation.
According to Omisore, “I also want to commend the courage of Osun people for their perseverance in the face of debilitating economic inhibitions. I understand that as you receive this message, most of you, especially the civil servants, have not received your salaries in the last three months. The market men and women, the artisan and the entire populace are in dire straight because of economic downturn of our dear state.
“That is the driving force behind the rescue mission we espoused when we started the political journey to put our dear state, the state of Living-spring, on economic prosperity.
“I, therefore, urge that collectively, we shall lift the state from its present doldrums foisted on us as we continue with the Rescue Mission. Let us put the event of the year 2014 behind us and let us forge ahead with determination and abiding faith in God that year 2015 would offer us the best.”
Ogun Labour Party, PDP gov candidates advise electorates
THE governorship candidate of the Labour Party in Ogun State, Mr Sina Kawonise, has enjoined the people and residents of Ogun State to make 2015 a year of new beginning by ensuring that they participate fully in the elections that will redefine governance in the state.
Kawonise, in a new year message signed by his media aide, Ademola Osinusi, said Ogun State was at a critical juncture and the people owed it a duty to this generation and generations yet unborn by voting right in the coming elections.
“2015 will determine what happens to Ogun State in the next four years and beyond. We must hold our destiny in our hands by ensuring that we vote out a mindless government without milk of human kindness,” Kawonise said.
Similarly, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, described 2014 as a very challenging one for Nigeria because of the socio-economic and security challenges.
Isiaka, in a statement by his media assistant, Wale Junaid, said “2014 was a challenging one for many reasons as we had to deal with a lot of socio-economic and security challenges that not only degraded the wellbeing of many people but also made them lose hope for a better New Year.”
Nigeria ’ll surmount security challenges —Oluwole OkeFORMER chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Honourable Oluwole Oke, on Wednesday, admonished Nigerians not to despair over the prevailing insecurity challenges, confronting the nation.
He expressed optimism that “it is certain that the worrisome insecurity plaguing our dear country, most especially in the North-East will be over in 2015.”
In a New Year message signed by his media aide, Mr Yemi Giwa, Oke emphasised that “Nigerians should have more confidence in the ability of President Goodluck Jonathan-led Federal Government and the military in putting a permanent end to insurgency and terror campaign, being spearheaded by the dreaded Boko Haram sect in the North.”
While imploring the people to persevere, with the hope of a potent solution to the crisis and other teething problems, he said “Nigerians, regardless of political interests, should pray and be absolutely committed to the unity of the country. We should remain one indivisible entity by proving wrong some people and nation that had predicted our country would be divided in 2015.”
Agbaje salutes Nigerians
LAGOS State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Jimi Agbaje, has asked Nigerians to regard 2015 as the year of peaceful and credible elections.
Agbaje also canvassed support for PDP in 2015, saying his party offered the most credible candidates and the most realistic programmes capable of driving human and infrastructural development in the country.
He especially commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for spending last year putting in place structures geared towards improvement of the electoral process.
Agbaje, in a New Year message on Tuesday, released by his Director of Media and Publicity, Felix Oboagwina, asked Nigerians to demonstrate a commitment to violence-free and fraud-proof polls.
“We wish Nigerians a Happy New Year. Everyone must realise that the 2015 elections will usually come and go, so politicians and citizens must work towards holding elections that will not end in bloodshed or lead to the dislocation of the life of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
According to him, politicians must imbibe the attitude of President Goodluck Jonathan, who has always maintained that his ambition was not worth the blood of any Nigerian.
Agbaje also urged Nigerians to live in optimism that the country would, in the New Year, overcome her present challenges.
Expressing gratitude to God for the progress manifesting in the country’s socio-economic and socio-political indices, the PDP governorship candidate said building up on the progress made so far would further Nigeria’s vision of joining the world’s foremost nations.
NOA tasks Nigerians to keep faith in the country
THE Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Mike Omeri, has urged Nigerians at home and abroad to increase their faith in the country in the coming year, saying that the promises of good planning for a transformational nation has started yielding positive result.
Omeri said this in his New Year message to Nigerians, expressing his appreciation to the people of Nigeria for standing by the government and the nation throughout the year 2014, especially in the war against insurgency.
This is contained in a statement signed and made available to newsmen in Abuja by the Chief Press Secretary of the Agency, Mr Paul Odenyi.
According to the statement, the DG stated further that the challenges of the past year were neutralised as Nigerians resolved to close ranks in support for government’s policies. He then enjoined Nigerians to sustain the “tempo of resilience against internal and external forces,” assuring that Nigeria would remain an indivisible entity.
“I felicitate with Nigerians at home and abroad. The year 2015 promises growth and development for our dear nation. We should not be distracted by the antics of our enemies. A united Nigeria will be greater and prosperous,” said Omeri.
The NOA boss also assured Nigerians that adequate security has been put in place to ensure hitch free celebration, adding that Nigerians should continue to be law abiding and security conscious.
Osun PDP charges Nigerians to exhibit love, toleranceOSUN State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Wednesday, charged Nigerians to exhibit love, tolerance and understanding in 2015, contending that there was need to support peace and other virtues, capable of promoting development in the country.
In a New Year message signed by the state chairman of the party, Alhaji Gani Olaoluwa, the PDP affirmed that “as we approach election period, it is incumbent on all and sundry, irrespective of political affiliations to shun any activity that can jeopardise corporate existence of the nation.
According to him, “the only country we have is Nigeria. The unity, cohesion and the survival of this nation should be of topmost priority to everybody. In Osun, we also want to urge our teeming supporters and admirers that we would soon get justice to retrieve our stolen mandate as we are hopeful of a favourable judgment from the election petition tribunal.
While calling on the people of the state to endure prevailing economic hardship, Olaoluwa maintained that “it is certain that there would be light at the end of the dark tunnel when the suffering of the masses, strike action by teachers and challenges, facing the civil servants would be over.”
CAN president urges Nigerian leaders to be wise in decisionsThe President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, has called on Nigerian leaders to be wise and courageous in their decisions in this coming year because as it has already been known, the challenges of the country were becoming multifaceted from insecurity to crashing oil prices and many others.
In a statement made available to Nigerian Tribune, Oritsejafor said he saw a lot of opportunities in the midst of all the challenges.
He said, “the year 2015 may seem quite challenging for Nigeria but it is one that equally holds a lot of hopes and promises that could lead to the fulfillment that we have all yearned for, so I disagree with the widespread projections about 2015 whether in terms of security, infrastructure, politics and the economy; man is not God, I believe that 2015 might just be that year in which Nigeria’s socio-economic revolution will be actualised.”
The CAN president urged all Nigerians, especially the Christian faithful, to brace up for the challenges ahead of us both as individuals and as a nation.
Oritsejafor said, “I want all Nigerians to approach this New Year with a renewed sense of vigour and the understanding that we all must work for the kind of society that we desire to have. If we want peace and prosperity then we must work for it and not lament over the challenges.”
APC candidate distributes rice in Ogun
All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for Ogun East, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Wednesday, distributed thousands of bags of rice to the party executives in all electoral units, wards and local councils in all the nine local government areas in the district.
Addressing the party executives at a meeting at Ijebu North East local council Secretariat, Atan, Prince Abiodun stated that his visit to the area became necessary because of the huge support given to him by the people during the party primaries which he declared contributed tremendously to his emergence as the winner.
He appreciated the people for their support for him despite the fact that one of his co-contestants is from their council area.
The APC senatorial candidate assured the people of the district that on market days in each of the wards in the nine local governments, bags of rice would, henceforth, be distributed to market women and men in the district.
According to him, the party executives from the unit to local government levels would inform party members and supporters about the days chosen for distribution in each ward for the people to come out en mass to collect their bags of rice.
He also noted that apart from four litre of kerosene that would be distributed at all the electoral units, party members would also get kegs of vegetable oil.
He noted that the gesture is a foretaste of what the people will benefit from him when they eventually elect him during the February general election, adding that they should, however guard their Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) as that is their means of guaranteeing that such benefits continue.
By the middle of January, he said the first set of beneficiaries of the soft loans he had arranged with a commercial Bank for empowerment of women, particularly the market women would have access to the fund.
Prince Abiodun, however, explained that the motive behind the distribution of the commodities was to cushion the effect of the current economic situation in the country, particularly during the New Year celebration.
He dismissed the insinuation that the gifts are being shared in exchange for votes. The APC candidate noted that his counsel for the people to protect their PVC is a way of encouraging them to take their civic responsibilities seriously.
Fielding questions from the attendees, Prince Abiodun disclosed that the State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has concluded plans to grade some of their roads, assuring them he would shoulder the responsibility of grading those the state government would not be able to attend to now.
He noted he would only attend to some of the numerous problems presented before him by the people before the election, adding that he would tackle the rest thereafter.
Present at the event were the state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Elizabeth Sonubi, the Ijebu North East local government Chairman, Femi Odufowokan, his counterpart from Ikenne local council, Tajudeen Salako among several chieftains of the party.
2015, year of blessings —Awoniyi
NIGERIANS have been asked to see 2015 as a year of blessing and one full of bountiful opportunities for the country.
Kogi State deputy governor, Yomi Awoniyi, in his new year message to the people, congratulated Nigerians for entering yet another year, a year he said calls for prayers for the nation to witness a peaceful 2015 general elections.
The deputy governor called for prayers for the nation to overcome its current security challenges, disclosing that the nation would only attain its full potentials in an environment that is peaceful.
Awoniyi appealed to politicians and their supporters to play by the rules of the game, cautioned against provocative utterances and to eschew violence before and after the 2015 general elections, stating that the nation and not personal interest, should come first in the minds of Nigerians.
He felicitated with the Kogi State governor, Captain Idris Wada, for the purposeful and focused driven leadership the state is experiencing, praying God to grant him the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to continue to pilot the affairs of the state to the desired destination.
Ademowo urges Nigerians to draw closer to God
MOST Reverend Adebola Ademowo, the dean emeritus, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), on Wednesday, urged Nigerians to draw nearer to God and seek His forgiveness.
Ademowo, who gave the urge in his New Year message, said that the challenges currently facing the country would be resolved when Nigerians turn back to God.
He described 2015 as a long-awaited year in the political history of the nation, which marked the end of the century of the amalgamation of northern and southern protectorates that gave birth to present-day Nigeria.
“The year 2015 begins the journey of another century or the second century in the history of our nation. It is also a decisive year, a year that will be filled with a series of electioneering.
“It is a year of crucial decision making for Nigerians on the political future of our country; I have no iota of doubt in the ability of God to stem the tide of the challenges facing the country,’’ he said.
According to him, though the political atmosphere may be tense, cloudy and chaotic, with some people possibly living in despair, God is a specialist in putting things in order and a covenant keeper.
He urged Nigerians at home or in the Diaspora to be practically committed to smooth transition of power to elected government at all levels.
“Nigerians must be more tolerant and considerate in their speeches and actions. Let us promote love and unity despite our diverse culture, religions and tongues,’’ he said.
Ademowo urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be truly independent, an unbiased umpire and non partisan.
He urged the Federal Government to adequately fund the commission so that it would conduct free, fair and credible elections.
The cleric also called on the security agencies not to collude with politicians to short change the voting rights of Nigerians, adding that people’s votes should be well protected.
Ademowo appealed to politicians to tread the part of honour and dignity, urging them not to see the 2015 election as a `do or die’ affair.
“Pre and post-election violence must be done away with; let us play politics that other developing countries can copy,’’ he said.
The cleric urged the Federal Government to ensure that electoral laws were followed and enforced to instil a healthy democratic culture.
He advised Nigerians not to sell their conscience and their tomorrow for a penny.
2015, year of prosperity for Oyo people —Accord PartyThe Oyo State chapter of Accord Party has described the New Year as a long-expected period for the fulfillment of the aspiration of the people of the state for a compassionate government that the party would usher in.
The publicity secretary of the party, Dr Nureni Adeniran, who made this known in the New Year message by the party, said Accord would end the wait of the people for a messianic government with a human face and compassion for the poor.
“The mood of the people of the state, especially the masses who are in the majority, is depressing. We have been urging the people to endure the hardship for we know their period of endurance has an expiry date, that is, the year 2014, which just ended.
“In 2015, there will be a change of government in Oyo State and this will be done democratically and peacefully through the ballot by the people of the state. Accord is the incoming government by the grace of God.
“There comes a time when the people, no matter how hard anyone tries to ride roughshod over them, will be king and decider of their fate. That time will come on February 14 and 28, this year,” Adeniran said.
Benue CAN boss charges Nigerians
BENUE State chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Yiman Orkwa, has assured that despite all the hues and cries concerning the nation in the year 2015, God will take control of the affairs of this country.
In a new year message to Nigerians, the Archbishop said in the statement signed by his director of Media, Deacon Otindi Barka, that the only thing Nigerians need is to intensify prayer to God Almighty and allow unity to prevail in their day to day activities.
The clergyman, who allayed the fear of Nigerians, ahead the general elections, called on politicians to have the fear of God and accept that only God has the absolute power to crown king but should not see the election as a do or die affair.
NNPC, DPR assure Nigerians of adequate fuel supply
THE Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has assured Nigerians of adequate supply of petroleum products during the New Year celebrations and beyond.
The Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Department, NNPC, Mr Ohi Alegbe, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
Alegbe, therefore, called on the general public to avoid panic buying of petroleum products as adequate measures had been put in place to supply Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) nationwide.
He also advised marketers to desist from hoarding or diverting petroleum products as any marketer caught in the nefarious act would be sanctioned.
Alegbe pledged that the corporation would ensure hitch free transportation of goods and services during the festive period and beyond.
Similarly, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), said measures had been put in place to check hoarding or diversion of petroleum products in Abuja and its environs during the period.
The Zonal Controller, DPR Abuja, Mallam Usman Mohammed, told NAN that the department had raised three surveillance teams to monitor fuel situation in the city and ensure that no marketer sell the product above the official pump price or under-dispensed to motorists.
He called on the residents to report any suspected manipulation by fuel attendants at filling stations to the appropriate authority.
Mohammed warned that any oil marketer who indulge in sharp practice would either be suspended or get the licence withdrawn.
In the same vein, the Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), has directed Petroleum Marketers in the country to sell products allocated to them only at their various stations.
The Executive Secretary of the agency, Mr Farouk Ahmed, who stated this in a statement issued in Abuja, also called on the marketers to sell PMS at the officially-approved pump price of N97 per litre, or risk sanction.
He said that the PPPRA’s national petroleum products stocks data indicated that the country had been consistent in building land and marine-based stocks, which now stood at over 40-day sufficiency.
He said more vessels were being handled to discharge products at various depots across the country.
Let Nigerians decide who governs them, Olofin charges politicians
The All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for Ekiti Central senatorial district, Ambassador Gbenga Olofin, has called on  all politicians to allow Nigerians to decide who governs them through free, fair and credible elections in 2015.
In his New Year message to Nigerians, which he made available to the Nigerian Tribune on Wednesday, Ambassador Olofin said politicians ought to play the game by the rules “to ensure that peace reigns in our land in 2015 and beyond.”
Olofin said, “everybody knows that 2015 is a special year for all Nigerians, irrespective of our religion and political backgrounds; hence, the need for all to be careful and allow Nigerians to decide who will govern them in another four years.”
While congratulating Nigerians and the people of Ekiti State, especially Ekiti Central senatorial district, Olofin urged them to continue in prayers for peaceful polls in February 2015.
According to him, there is no challenge that is insurmountable with prayers, “therefore, Nigerians must take their problems and the country’s challenges to God in the New Year for a divine solution.
The APC senatorial candidate called on the people to have faith in God and be optimistic over the needed change that would heal the land.
The Oyo State chapter of Accord Party has described the New Year as a long-expected period for the fulfillment of the aspiration of the people of the state for a compassionate government that the party would usher in.
The publicity secretary of the party, Dr Nureni Adeniran, who made this known in the New Year message by the party, said Accord would end the wait of the people for a messianic government with a human face and compassion for the poor.
“The mood of the people of the state, especially the masses who are in the majority, is depressing. We have been urging the people to endure the hardship for we know their period of endurance has an expiry date, that is, the year 2014, which just ended.
“In 2015, there will be a change of government in Oyo State and this will be done democratically and peacefully through the ballot by the people of the state. Accord is the incoming government by the grace of God.
“There comes a time when the people, no matter how hard anyone tries to ride roughshod over them, will be king and decider of their fate. That time will come on February 14 and 28, this year,” Adeniran said.

Nigerian Tribune

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